Planning a family holiday can be a daunting task, but fear not! If you’re looking for fun activities for kids in Dorset, you’ve come to the right place!
Our delightful county in South West England is brimming with opportunities that promise to keep your little ones both entertained and enthralled.
From exploring stunning landscapes to engaging in exciting outdoor pursuits, this blog post shines a light on the variety of adventures waiting for your family in this charming corner of Britain.
From family-friendly attractions to exciting water sports, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Dorset an ideal destination for families looking for fun days out!
Outdoor Activities
One great way to keep children entertained and active is by taking advantage of Dorset’s wide range of outdoor activities.
The Jurassic Coast offers plenty of opportunities for exploration; take the kids fossil hunting on the beach or go rock pooling along Kimmeridge Bay.
For those looking for adventure, there are several spots for coasteering around Weymouth – a thrilling combination of swimming, climbing, and jumping into deep water pools!
The Purbeck Hills provide some amazing views across the countryside, perfect for family walks with plenty of photo stops along the way.
If you’re feeling brave enough, why not have a go at wild swimming?
There are loads of stunning rivers and lakes throughout Dorset that offer an invigorating swim amidst nature’s beauty – sure to tire out even the most energetic youngsters!
Nature Trails
When it comes to entertaining kids, the first thing that often springs to mind is taking them somewhere exciting and thrilling. However, for those looking for something a little more peaceful and serene, Dorset’s nature trails offer an ideal way to pass the time with younger ones.
Nature trails in Dorset provide an opportunity to get out into the fresh air whilst also learning about local wildlife and natural history. There are many different routes around the county from coastal paths to countryside walks – perfect for strollers or buggies too.
The well-maintained trails make navigation easy and there are usually plenty of interesting signs identifying points of interest along the way. For added excitement, you can even turn your walk into a scavenger hunt or geo-caching activity.
No matter how far you’re willing to go, one thing’s certain; if you choose a nature trail in Dorset you’ll be guaranteed a fun day out while giving children an appreciation of their surroundings at the same time. So why not pick up some snacks and head off on foot?
Family Attractions
Having explored the great outdoors, it’s now time to delve into Dorset’s family attractions.
From zoos and petting farms to theme parks and aquariums, there is plenty of fun for all ages.
Why not visit Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre near Wool? The 65-acre park is home to over 250 rescued primates from around the world. Your kids will love getting up close and personal with their furry friends.
If your children are thrill seekers you could check out Adventure Wonderland – an amusement park located in Bournemouth featuring rides such as roller coasters, carousels and log flumes that they won’t forget in a hurry!
For those who prefer something more relaxed, why not explore Sea Life in Weymouth? It’s home to over 1,000 sea creatures from around the world, including sharks, rays, penguins, and jellyfish. The aquarium also has a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a rock pool and a touch pool.
If you’re looking for fun activities for kids in Dorset, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Water Sports
Dorset is home to some of the best water sports in the country.
According to recent figures, an estimated 12.8 million people visited Dorset’s beaches and harbours last year for a range of activities from surfing to sailing.
Here are some great ways for kids to explore these waters:
- Take a boat trip around Poole Harbour – you never know what marine life you might spot! There have been sightings of humpback whales, dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles and more!
- Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore the Jurassic Coast. There are many different places to kayak in Dorset, from calm rivers to the open sea.
- Try paddleboarding on one of Weymouth’s many beaches – another great fun activity for kids in Dorset!
For those wishing to take their love of water sports further, there are plenty of places offering lessons in everything from windsurfing to kitesurfing.
Whatever your activity preferences, with so much choice available here in Dorset, there will always be something new and exciting for kids (and adults!) to try out.
Historical Sites
Dorset, England, brims with family-friendly historical sites.
Begin with the ancient ruins of Corfe Castle – kids will love its interactive tales of treachery and treason. The Summer Games at Corfe Castle is a free event that takes place from July to September. There are a variety of games and activities for children to enjoy, including archery, tug of war, and skittles.
Next, journey to the intriguing Iron Age hill forts at Maiden Castle; it’s a perfect place to ignite little imaginations with stories of Roman invasions.
For a different historical angle, visit the Tank Museum in Bovington. Home to an extensive collection of armoured vehicles, it’s a hit with military-minded youngsters. According to the official website, it’s full of interactive fun suitable for all ages, “with dressing up, games, model making, and hands-on activities”.
Nothe Fort in Weymouth is a treasure trove of family fun. Discover the labyrinthine underground tunnels, visit the impressive Victorian Gun Deck, experience the lofty WW2 gun on the ramparts, or unearth secrets in the underground Nuclear Bunker. All this is set against stunning 360-degree views of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. With engaging trails for kids and friendly volunteers enhancing your visit, Nothe Fort offers a unique, interactive experience for all ages.
Journey back into Victorian times at Kingston Lacy, a grand stately home with beautiful gardens and woodland walks. Packed with family activities and trails, it offers an engaging blend of history and outdoor fun.
Take a trip to the exquisite manor house at Athelhampton, complete with its enchanting gardens where little ones will delight in the children’s trail. Kids under 12 go free!
Visiting these beautiful locations will not only provide hours of fun but also give your kids an insight into Dorset’s fascinating heritage along with some great photo opportunities too!
Shopping Experiences
As the old adage goes, “time flies when you’re having fun.” Shopping experiences with kids in Dorset are certainly no exception!
For a unique retail experience all rolled into one, visit The Arcade Bournemouth – an indoor mall situated right in the heart of town.
For a bright and modern shopping centre which is just perfect for families, head to Castlepoint Shopping Centre in Bournemouth. This vast space has something for everyone – from big-name brands to smaller independents.
Dorset also has a full range of entertainment facilities including cinemas, bowling alleys and arcades that will keep little ones entertained for hours on end! So why not make it a day out?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Best Family-Friendly Restaurants In Dorset?
When looking for family-friendly restaurants in Dorset, there are many options. From fine dining to casual eateries, you’ll be sure to find something the whole family can enjoy.
There are a number of seafood restaurants that offer a delicious array of dishes made with fresh local ingredients and prepared by expert chefs.
For those who prefer more traditional fare, pubs and bistros serve up classic British cuisines such as fish and chips or shepherd’s pie.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try one of the unique restaurant experiences on offer? Whether it’s an interactive dinner experience at a theatre restaurant or an educational journey through food history, your kids will love discovering new tastes in Dorset!
Are There Any Amusement Parks Or Zoos In The Area?
Symbolic of the joys of childhood, amusement parks and zoos offer a chance to escape into a different world.
From Bournemouth’s Adventure Wonderland – home to rollercoasters, go-karts and family rides – to Monkey World in Wareham, Dorset offers plenty of opportunity for kids (and adults!) to have fun.
Dorset Adventure Park is a great place for families to have fun and get active. The park has two lakes with floating obstacles, a mud trail, a climbing wall, and a high ropes course. There is also a playground, a snack shack, and a picnic area.
Fantasy Island Fun Park is a family-friendly amusement park n Weymouth. It boasts a wide variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, a ghost train, and a soft play area. The park is also home to a number of arcade games, a bowling alley, and a laser tag arena.
Whether you’re looking for thrills or just want somewhere scenic to stroll around with your little ones, Dorset has something for everyone!
Are There Any Child-Friendly Events Or Festivals In Dorset?
Dorset offers plenty of child-friendly events and festivals throughout the year.
Families can enjoy activities such as open-air theatre performances, music festivals, and food fairs which are suitable for children of all ages.
Camp Bestival, the ultimate family festival, is a sensational three-day event held at the enchanting Lulworth Castle grounds. Featuring headline performers and beloved children’s acts, it offers a feast of entertainment for every age group – from toddlers and teens to adults.
As spring segues into summer, Dorset’s events calendar truly blossoms. Carnivals, food festivals, and live performances bring the county to vibrant life. The venerable Great Dorset Steam Fair and the Dorset County Show, both with over a century’s history, continue to attract multitudes with their promise of delightful family-oriented activities and fun.
There are also lots of quirky markets held to celebrate local culture – perfect for keeping young ones entertained!
Is There Any Public Transportation Available For Getting Around Dorset?
Getting around Dorset need not be a hassle – there are plenty of options to choose from!
From buses and trains to ferries and taxis; it’s easy as pie for the whole family.
Taking public transport is relatively inexpensive compared to other modes of transport, so why not jump on board?
It can be a great way to explore all that Dorset has to offer – without breaking the bank.
Is There Any Lodging Available That Caters To Families With Children?
For families with children, there are several lodging options available in Dorset.
The area is home to various hotels, cottages, and inns that cater specifically to those travelling with kids.
Many of these establishments offer amenities such as family-sized rooms, cribs or infant beds upon request, kid-friendly activities on site or close by, and special menus for the little ones.
English Cottage Vacation’s incredible Well Cottage is also a place to consider staying for your trip! With a resident chef and dedicated chauffeur/guide taking care of everything, your whole family be able to focus entirely on having fun!
Fun Activities For Kids In Dorset: Final Word
With so many different choices at hand, parents can rest assured their trip will be enjoyable for everyone involved!
It’s clear that Dorset is a great destination for families looking to keep their kids entertained.
With amazing restaurants, amusement parks, zoos and kid-friendly events, there’s something to suit every family.
Plus, getting around the area is simple with the convenient public transport options available.
And if you’re looking for somewhere suitable to stay while in Dorset, plenty of child-friendly accommodations are on offer too.
So grab your kids and get ready for an unforgettable holiday in beautiful Dorset!
